Today, there seems to be a never-ending supply of platforms to showcase musicians. There are all the late-night television talk shows. There’s the Tiny Desk YouTube channel. There’s Saturday Night Live, Austin City Limits, and many more. But one you may not think of often enough is Sesame Street. Over the years, the show for kids has highlighted many a musical star. And here below, we wanted to explore three such examples. Let’s look at a few performances from big name artists that just soared on the puppet and muppet populated program.
Videos by American Songwriter
“1234” by Feist (2008)
The Canadian-born singer Feist rose to popularity thanks to the inclusion of her song, “1234”, in an Apple commercial earlier this century. But perhaps no popular song has ever been more suited for an appearance on Sesame Street in history. A song about counting to four? That’s perfect for the colorful, educational program that so many grew up with. Feist’s sweet voice is a lovely inclusion on the program and her musical performance may be the best in the show’s history.
“A Song About Elmo” by Adam Sandler (2009)
Comedian and songwriter Adam Sandler stopped by Sesame Street to sing a song for Elmo on his acoustic guitar. There was just one problem—what rhymes with Elmo? Well, the silly and creative Sandler certainly came up with a number of words that would sync up with the name of the popular red character on the show. Bringing his signature charm, Sandler made a lot of new fans in 2009 with this appearance and homage to the furry Elmo!
“Happy Furry Monsters Song” by R.E.M. (1998)
When the Georgia-born indie rock band R.E.M. came on Sesame Street, they did something that not everyone is willing to do. They changed the lyrics to one of their popular tracks to fit the theme. And the result was magical. Where Michael Stipe and company used to sing about shiny happy people, they were now singing about happy furry monsters! What could be better? It’s great to see such a cerebral, serious band enjoy themselves, and that’s just what the characters on Sesame Street can make you do: relax and open up to the world.
Photo from Feist “1234” Music Video via YouTube
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